Distracted driving is one of the top reasons for car accidents within the state of Connecticut. Unfortunately, driving distractions have become more and more common and often quite dangerous. Cell phone use has additionally skyrocketed among most drivers, causing distractions which have been found to be more dangerous than driving under the influence. Many fatal car accidents occur every day which are the result of a driver texting while driving or checking social media websites on their cell phone. If you or a loved one have been injured due to distracted driving, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Distracted Driving Laws

Connecticut recently passed harsher distracted driving laws. Beginning in 2013, anyone convicted of distracted driving is penalized with one point on their driver’s license. In Connecticut, points against a driver’s license add up quickly and remain on your record for two years. If you receive more than 10 points, your license can be suspended.

Connecticut has also passed a law banning all handheld devices for drivers as well as texting for all drivers. If you are found to use your cell phone while driving in any manner other than a blue tooth or in speaker mode, you run the risk of severe driving penalties.

However, criminal penalties are not the only repercussions for violators of these rules. If you have been involved in a car accident as the result of another driver’s distraction while on the phone or simply while doing something else in their car other than driving, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Distracted driving is incredibly dangerous and often impacts children the most. Children tend to unpredictably dart out in front of oncoming traffic. While most drivers are on the lookout for children running across intersections or other vehicles running red lights, those drivers who are too busy on their cell phones will not recognize road hazards.

Driver distraction can lead to devastating injuries. While Connecticut has criminalized distracted driving, this often does not make the injured party whole. This is why it is essential to bring a claim in civil court in order to receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and loss of consortium in the case of injury to a loved one.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident caused by distracted driving, do not hesitate to contact the experienced Connecticut distracted driving accident lawyers of Eagan, Donohue, Van Dyke & Falsey. Our attorneys understand the inherent dangers of driving while on the phone and work tirelessly to combat all forms of distracted driving. We therefore have an elevated interest in our clients’ cases to ensure they are compensated for their injuries sustained at the hands of a distracted driver. Contact our Connecticut office today for your initial free consultation.